Julio frowns. “Sure, okay.” The others exchange concerned looks as Julio sets the staff in the stand and strips off the oven mitt. The scythe looks a little like a stage prop, and yet not completely out of place in this room full of antiques.

Auggie edges his way inside the room. “Not to be the bearer of bad news, but there is quite a lot of work to do—Seasons to rehome, storms to settle, an Observatory to salvage—so as soon as you feel up to it, we should probably all discuss how to proceed.”

“Gaia, Chronos, and Ananke,” Jack whispers. “I don’t even know where to start.” He rubs his eyes, already looking overwhelmed.

“I sent out a radio transmission to the four portals this morning, informing the Guards there’s a new Chronos,” Auggie explains.

“How did they take the news?” Jack asks.

“Remarkably well. It seems Doug didn’t earn much loyalty during his short tenure. They’re relieved, I think, that their new Chronos is someone Lyon chose—and trusted—to be his successor.”

Jack’s throat bobs at that. I rest my hand on his, giving it a reassuring squeeze. I’m not sure if it’s grief over Lyon’s death or worry over the professor’s enormous expectations of him that seems to be stuck in Jack’s throat. His voice is thick when he asks, “What about the evacuated Seasons?”

“The portals have been directed to provide shelter to as many displaced Seasons as they can find here in the city, and they’re to send global updates through any open, secure channels to those abroad. They’re soliciting volunteers and relocating willing Seasons to storm-ravaged areas and regions in need. They’re awaiting further instructions from you . . . Chronos,” he adds delicately.

Jack starts to sit up. I push him back down by the shoulders, saying, “We’ll be down in a few minutes, Auggie.” I give them all a pointed look. One by one, they slip from the room. Kai’s the last to go.

“How much time do we have?” I whisper to her as she leaves.

“Fifteen minutes won’t harm anything.” Kai’s smile is wry as she pulls the door shut.

I can already see Jack’s mind working. Worrying. Bits and pieces of complex plans falling into place. “Relax,” I say, climbing onto the bed. I rest my head on my hand and stretch out alongside him. “Kai says it’s all going to be fine.”

“How?” His frown is riddled with doubt.

“She won’t tell me. But there’s no sense arguing with Inevitability. Or with me.” I curl into his side and lay my head on his chest.